Post-AMAs: 6 K-pop artists to watch after BTS

UPI News Service, 11/21/2017

Korean boy band BTS's appearance at Sunday's American Music Awards put the spotlight on K-pop's rising popularity in the United States.

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The seven-member band's hit song "DNA" spent four weeks on Billboard's Hot 100 list. BTS's bright pop sound, infused with hip hop, and a well-choreographed stage presence are luring young American fans into the Korean scene.

Here are some other acts to watch from the glamorous bubble-gum genre of Korean pop.

BTOB

For more of the hip-hop element in K-pop, the group BTOB carries it in spades. The music video for their single "Wow" is even reminiscent of some of the visuals in "Blood, Sweat and Tears" by BTS. It may also take you back to the vibe of early 2000s boy bands like 'N Sync and New Kids On The Block.

Blackpink

"Boombayah" by Blackpink is an easy gateway to K-pop, as it is an English-heavy track. Reminiscent of well-known artists like M.I.A., Blackpink brings the hip-hop vibes BTS fans adore, mixed with the synth and feel-good pop sounds that make K-pop so bright and unique. The band can also be spotted in the new movie, Justice League, in the background on one of The Flash's TV sets.

EXO

EXO's popularity is right behind BTS's and very stylistically similar. With heavy hip-hop influences and hard-hitting choruses, EXO delivers many of the features that attract fans to BTS. A rivalry can sometimes be found between fans of the groups, but many K-pop enthusiasts enjoy both boy bands alike. Their hit track "Monster" showcases some of the driving sounds that make this group stand out in the scene.

4Minute

For more of a rap experience, check out the girl group 4Minute. They deliver catchy and fast-paced verses in tracks like "Crazy," but still deliver strong melodies throughout their body of work. The girls provide an explosive sound that melds rap and pop influences into cohesive K-pop songs for a wide range of audiences.

Block B

For vibrant visuals akin to BTS songs such as "DNA," look to the boy group Block B and their colorful videos for songs like "Her." In the video, where a staged interview scene takes place, you can get a taste of the band members' equally bright personalities.

Hyuna

Korean solo artist Hyuna delivers elements of rap and hip hop, bright visuals and catchy hooks with a chorus that drives. Hyuna is one of the more provocative artists on the market and delivers some of the edge the pop genre can often lack. Her song "Roll Deep" features a member of BTOB.